The End of Keyes—Resegregation Trends and Achievement in Denver Public Schools Catherine Horn, University of Houston Michal Kurlaender, University of California Davis University of Denver Sturm College of Law February 2, 2013

Keyes decision (1995) “The Denver now before this court is very different from what it was when this lawsuit began….The current mayor of Denver is Black. His predecessor was Hispanic. A Black woman has been superintendent of schools. Black and Hispanic men and women are in the city council, the school board, the State Legislature, and other political positions…” “…the vestiges of past discrimination by the defendants have been eliminated to the extent practicable” --Judge Richard Matsch

Goal of the Study  Legal Context  Supreme Court Decision (1973)  Unitary Status (1995)  Demographic Changes  Declines in white enrollment  Increases in Hispanic enrollment  Achievement Trends

Empirical Literature Related to Desegregation Outcomes Enhanced learning Long-term educational and occupational gains Increased social interaction Improved attitudes and citizenship

A Brief Word About the Benefits of Diversity Literature Promotes cross-racial understanding and reduces prejudice Leads to educational benefits Promotes Civic Engagement Leads to improved classroom environments

Background—Demographic Changes in Denver Public Schools

Percent Proficient and Advanced on the CSAP, by Race, for Denver Public School District,

Conclusions  Return to Neighborhood Schools  Increased Segregation  Closer look at Hispanics  Persistent achievement gaps  Need for social science and legal partnerships